Protein Restriction for Children

Protein Restriction for Children

Protein requirements for children with kidney failure

The body uses protein from foods to grow and repair cells. With kidney failure, your child will need to avoid excess protein. The kidneys may not be able to get rid of the waste products that come from eating too much protein. But it is also important for your child to get enough protein for proper growth and nutrition. Your child's weight, medical condition, type of treatment, and laboratory values will all help determine how much protein your child needs. Your child's healthcare provider or dietitian will help determine this, too.

What foods are high in protein?

The following foods are high in protein. If your child has kidney failure, talk with his or her healthcare provider about how much your child should have of these foods:

Meat (beef, chicken, pork, and turkey)

Fish

Seafood (shrimp, scallops, clams, and oysters)

Eggs

Dairy products (milk, cheese, ice cream, yogurt, and pudding)

Helpful protein serving conversions

Your child's healthcare provider or dietitian will tell you how much protein your child can have each day. This will usually be listed in servings or grams per day.

Disclaimer:This information is not intended to substitute or replace the professional medical advice you receive from your child's physician. The content provided on this page is for informational purposes only, and was not designed to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease. Please consult your child's physician with any questions or concerns you may have regarding a medical condition.